How Homeowners Can Prepare for Autumn Lawn Care

Though temperatures may still seem warm, many of us are beginning to feel like summer is coming to a close—and with it, the summer lawn care season. For many homeowners, this is a blessing, but it is important to remember that there is still work to be done in preparing lawns for the fall weather. In fact, adequate preparation for the autumn months can lead to a healthier and easier-to-maintain lawn come next spring!

HOA board members can help residents get their yards autumn-ready by sharing with them these tips:

Remember that there is such a thing as cool-season grass, and that now is an ideal time to start sowing. By sowing now, you can give the grass an opportunity to take root before the frost comes. Some cool-season grass examples include fescue and rye.

Now is also an ideal time to fertilize your Astroturf, specifically using all-natural, slow-release fertilizer. This will allow your lawn to soak up these nutrients and store them for the winter. It might mean a much better-looking lawn come next spring!

The beginning of fall is an excellent time for homeowners to tidy up their landscaping. Begin by simply removing debris and unwanted bits of foliage. Another tip is to get a rake and “fluff” your mulch, which will allow for greater moisture permeation and keep your plants looking healthy. Speaking of which, fall is also a good time to fill in gaps with new plants or shrubs—though again, it’s important to do so in advance of the first frost, if possible.

As a precaution, homeowners should keep extensive pruning to a minimal. The risk is that pruning will leave plants too tender to withstand the cold; some basic maintenance is fine, but mass pruning should probably be avoided.

There are plenty of other opportunities for sprucing up your home and lawn during the autumn months, of course—including something as easy to overlook as cleaning out your shed. For homeowners zealous for keeping their lawns looking pretty and green, however, these basic pointers should offer some direction.